***PRE-PAID ADMISSION TO THE WINTER CARNIVAL ORCHID SHOW IS REQUIRED TO ENTER THE CONSERVATORY ON JANUARY 25 AND 26.*** Those coming just to visit the Conservatory’s gardens will still need to purchase a ticket for this weekend.
Orchids in Bloom: Celebrating 50 Years of Winter Carnival Magic
Step into a tropical paradise during the Saint Paul Winter Carnival! The Winter Carnival Orchid Show returns to the Marjorie McNeely Conservatory on January 25 from 10am – 5pm and January 26 from 10 AM to 4 PM, offering a vibrant, midwinter escape that’s become a must-see for orchid lovers across the Midwest.
Admission into the Conservatory for Winter Carnival Orchid Show weekend (regardless if you are coming for the Orchid Show or not) will be $8 for adults, and $6 for Como Friends Member, seniors 65+, and children under 12. Entrance to the Conservatory will be through the Japanese Garden Gates. Guests will exit at the main Visitor Center door. Those here to visit the zoo will not be admitted into the Conservatory without a pre-paid ticket. Prepayment by credit card and advanced reservations will be required. No refunds for this event.
Click Here To Purchase Tickets
The time on your ticket is the time you will enter the show. Please do not arrive any earlier than your designated time. For example, 11:00AM ticket holders will be granted admission between 11:00AM-11:15AM at the Japanese Garden gate.
Now celebrating 50 years, the show transforms the Conservatory into a breathtaking oasis filled with hundreds of exquisite orchids—showcased by the Conservatory, the Orchid Society of Minnesota, and renowned local and national growers. Wander through stunning displays, where the vivid colors and delicate beauty of orchids transport you far from the icy grip of Minnesota winter.
Enhance your experience by meeting orchid experts, exploring the world of orchid culture, and browsing an impressive selection of plants and orchid-themed treasures. Top-tier vendors include Arnold J. Klehm Growers Inc., Deerwood Orchids, New World Orchids, and Orchids Limited, offering exceptional plants to take home and brighten your space.
Don’t miss this extraordinary event—your chance to savor the beauty of orchids, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and escape to the tropics without leaving Saint Paul.
Tickets: Valid for one-time admission on the date and time purchased.
Join us for a weekend of warmth, wonder, and world-class orchids!
More information: http://www.orchidsocietyofminnesota.com
Do I have to pay to go to the Conservatory this weekend, even though I am not there for the Orchid Show?
Yes! This is the one time of year that there is an admission fee to the Conservatory. Admission into the Conservatory for Winter Carnival Orchid Show weekend (regardless if you are coming or the Orchid Show or not) will be $8 for adults, and $6 for Como Friends Member, seniors 65+, and children under 12. No refunds will be given for this event.
Do I have to pay to visit the zoo?
No! You only have to pay if you plan on visiting the Conservatory.
What if I want to visit the Zoo and the Conservatory?
You will need to make a separate reservation for the Conservatory by clicking HERE. You can visit the zoo before or after your visit to the Conservatory. If you just want to visit the zoo, no reservations are required.
Can I walk up and get a reservation to the Orchid Show?
Sorry, no. Prepayment by credit card and advanced reservations will be required. Click HERE to make your reservation.
Where do I enter?
Entrance for the Orchid Show will be at the Japanese Garden Gates. Entrance to the zoo is still at the Visitor Center.
Where can I buy orchids from a vendor?
Vendors will be located on the Covered Porch, which is the final part of your experience. Please note that once you reach the Covered Porch, reentry to the Conservatory displays is not permitted.
Where are the orchid displays located?
Orchids will be featured in every room of the Conservatory. Guests are free to explore in any direction.
I have a question about a plant or my own orchid. Who can I talk to?
Volunteers throughout the Conservatory will be happy to help! Please step aside from the flow of traffic to ask your questions and keep the lines moving.
Last year was so busy. What improvements have been made?
To ease congestion, we’ve introduced free-flowing traffic throughout the show, eliminating the previous set path. Lines will still form due to the popularity of the event, and some will cue outside and in the Ordway Garden. Please dress for the weather. We’ve also added an extra hour on Saturday.
Can I take photos of the displays?
Quick, candid photos are welcome! Please be courteous and avoid holding up the flow of traffic to take specific shots.
I can’t make it to the show. Can I get a refund?
Unfortunately, refunds are not available. However, you may forward your ticket email to a friend or family member to use.
My ticket says 12:30 PM. When should I arrive?
Please arrive at your scheduled ticket time. Early entry is not allowed.
I need to rent a wheelchair/scooter. Where can I do that?
Wheelchairs can be rented in the gift shop on a first-come, first-served basis.
I am not seeing a barcode on my reservation. What can I do?
Click “Upgrade Booking” on your reservation and you should be able to see a barcode. If you don’t, please email comoreservations@ci.stpaul.mn.us and we can send the barcode. Please double check this before you arrive.
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